Why the Mall of America Stepped Up Security

The Mall of America has tightened security after terrorist groups this weekend warned of an attack. But the FBI said the threat wasn't necessarily credible, and other US security officials have said there's no reason to freak out — just be careful.

"If anyone is planning to go to the Mall of America today, they've got to be particularly careful," said one government official, who made a point of clarifying that there's no need to avoid going to the mall. "There will be enhanced security there, but public vigilance, public awareness and public caution in situations like this is particularly important, and it's the environment we're in, frankly."

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The Mall of America's local police department also released a statement reassuring visitors that they've stepped up security measures and saying that the mall is a "very safe place."

While it's a little confusing to hear about a terror threat and then two seconds later have security officials be like, DON'T WORRY, EVERYTHING IS FINE, the point is that a threat is just that — a threat. What's more important is that everyone is poised to act if anything suspicious actually happens.